Ep 12. Large Mouth Bass

In season 2 episode 12 of NYPD Blue, titled "Large Mouth Bass," the 15th precinct detectives are on the hunt for the killer of an elderly woman who was attacked in her own home. The episode opens with the victim's daughter discovering her mother's lifeless body and frantically calling 911. The detectives arrive at the scene and begin investigating the murder.

Detectives Andy Sipowicz and Bobby Simone are tasked with questioning the victim's neighbors and family members, while Detective Diane Russell works on forensics and analyzing evidence collected from the crime scene. As they dig deeper into the victim's life, they discover that she had a strained relationship with her son-in-law, who had a history of substance abuse and financial troubles.

Meanwhile, Detective Greg Medavoy is dealing with his own personal issues when he discovers that his wife has been secretly gambling and losing their savings. This storyline adds a layer of emotional depth to the episode, as Medavoy struggles to balance his responsibilities as a detective with his crumbling marriage.

As the investigation continues, Sipowicz and Simone follow up on a lead that takes them to a local hiking trail where the victim's son-in-law used to fish. There, they discover a large mouth bass that appears to be in distress. This moment serves as a metaphor for the detectives' pursuit of justice, as they strive to catch the killer before he or she can harm anyone else.

The episode culminates in a dramatic standoff between the detectives and the suspect, as they confront him with the evidence they've gathered. The tension is palpable as the suspect seems to be on the verge of confessing, but ultimately he denies any involvement in the crime. It's a frustrating yet realistic ending that underscores the complexities of police work and the challenges of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Overall, "Large Mouth Bass" is a compelling episode of NYPD Blue that showcases both the procedural and personal aspects of the show. The murder investigation is engaging and well-paced, while the subplot involving Medavoy's marriage adds an emotional depth that resonates with viewers. The episode also features strong performances from the cast, particularly Dennis Franz as Sipowicz and Jimmy Smits as Simone. Fans of police procedurals will enjoy this episode, as will anyone who appreciates nuanced character development and subtle storytelling.